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Market master reviews setup, signage, parking, audits and schedule for Missoula Valley Winter Market
Summary
Market master Jennifer outlined vendor setup and parking rules, required signage, audit expectations, schedule and payment confirmation procedures for the upcoming Missoula Valley Winter Market season.
Jennifer, the market master for the Missoula Valley Winter Market, reviewed vendor rules and market logistics at the annual vendor meeting in Missoula, covering setup times, parking restrictions, required signage, audit visits and the seasonal schedule.
The guidance matters because it affects vendors’ ability to set up safely, comply with audits and remain eligible to sell during the market season. Jennifer said vendors must set up after doors open at 8 a.m. and that the market opens to customers at 9 a.m.; “Market starts at 9AM,” she said. She asked vendors to move vehicles at least three rows away from the mall entrance after unloading to keep the entrance and security lanes clear and to allow handicapped vendors to park one row back to reduce walking distance.
Jennifer reminded food vendors that they must post a vendor sign with at least 1 inch of type showing vendor name and a phone number so customers or market staff can contact the vendor if there is a problem. She said the market will be subject to a USDA nationwide market survey this year and that auditors will take photos and measurements; vendors should make sure booths meet program standards.
On departure and attendance, Jennifer asked vendors not to leave early and to speak with her if they must leave; she said she needs at least an hour's notice if someone plans to leave early to avoid disruption. Vendors who cannot attend should give at least 48 hours' notice so managers can find a replacement. She clarified that paying stall fees at the meeting did not guarantee placement; checks will be cashed only after the market master confirms vendor spots.
Jennifer also described a new promotional program, "Harvest of the Month," funded by a small grant to promote a selected produce item with recipes and signage; participating vendors will be asked to share sales observations to help evaluate the promotion.
Ending: Vendors were shown a tentative map of booth placements, asked to consult the posted materials and contact Jennifer or her assistant Kaylee with questions about spots, setup or payment.
